Thurgarton Village Hall fit for the future after energy-saving refit possible by FCC Communities Foundation grant

A village hall has re-opened after the completion of a energy-saving project.

Thurgarton Village Hall is now fit for the future with a new insulated roof, insulated walls, and replacement cladding and windows.

It means the hall is now a more comfortable, energy-efficient venue for the villagers, classes and other users of the hall.

The opening was carried out under covid-19 guidance by the Thurgarton Community Association.

As well as improvements to the building, a seating area has been created outside so users can enjoy the outdoor space and surroundings as well.

The project was paid for through a £49,230 grant from FCC Communities Foundation as well as fundraising by the village.

The foundation is a not-for-profit business that awards grants for community projects from money donated by FCC Environment through the Landfill Communities Fund.

The chairman of Thurgarton Community Association and vice-chairman of the parish council, David Lewis, is delighted the project has been completed, and that the hall is back in use in line with covid-19 restrictions.

He said: “This community facility is going to make a real difference to those who use it, as well as the wider community.

“We are extremely grateful to FCC Communities Foundation for providing funding as we would not have been able to go ahead without their support.”

The association was set up in 2012 to manage the village hall on behalf of the parish council.

The foundation’s grant manager, Cheryl Raynor, said: “It is great to see this refurbishment completed. The community was involved in the consultation every step of the way and I hope it meets their expectations.”

It is a charity that runs events and operates the hall for the benefit of the community.